What does a specialist in Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics do?

A "D-B Pediatrician" is able to spend the time needed to obtain a comprehensive history as well as a detailed physical examination including neurological and physical signs that may provide clues to a diagnosis.

They can refer to the appropriate ancillary services for further evaluation. Any referral must be based on an initial diagnosis and medical necessity. A child with developmental concerns may need a number of different "points of view" to confirm and define a diagnosis. A DB Pediatrician can start the critical process of referring to the needed services for your child such as:

• General laboratory tests as well as genetic testing,
  
• Physical Therapy,
  
• Occupational Therapy,
  
• Speech Therapy,
  
• ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) Therapy,
  
• Psychological testing,
  
• Play Therapy, and
  
• Family Counseling.

After thorough evaluation results and information from other therapists have been reviewed, if a child requires medication to address significant issues at home and school,a DB Pediatrician is usually able to provide medication management.

Many children and teens with a Developmental-Behavioral diagnosis benefit from modifications and accommodations in the school setting. A DB Pediatrician is able to provide a letter requesting either an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) or 504 Accommodations (based on the Americans With Disabilities Act, requiring a medical diagnosis) for the parent to take back to the school staff.

Most patients continue to receive ongoing preventive and acute health care services with the primary care provider. The primary care provider may choose to prescribe recommended medications for symptoms of ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Often, a patient with difficult behaviors will need to follow up with a neurologist, Pediatric Psychiatrist, or Prescribing Nurse Practitioner for more complex medication management.